When it comes to travel, more people are asking a simple but important question: “How can I explore the world without leaving a heavy footprint behind?” Accommodations play a huge role in answering this, and one spot in New Zealand is making waves by proving sustainability and comfort can go hand in hand.
The team behind this effort didn’t just slap a “green” label on their motel and call it a day. Instead, they went all-in, earning a respected sustainability certification by tackling everything from energy use to community partnerships. Let’s break down what this looks like in practice.
First, energy efficiency is at the core of their strategy. Solar panels now power a significant portion of the motel’s operations, cutting reliance on non-renewable sources. They’ve also switched to LED lighting across the property, which uses 75% less energy than traditional bulbs. Even the little things matter here—like installing smart thermostats in rooms to reduce unnecessary heating or cooling when guests are out exploring.
Water conservation is another priority. Low-flow showerheads and faucets are installed in every bathroom, saving thousands of liters annually without sacrificing water pressure. They’ve even implemented a linen reuse program, inviting guests to opt out of daily towel and sheet changes. It’s a small ask with a big impact, reducing both water waste and chemical detergents.
But sustainability isn’t just about resources—it’s about people, too. The motel sources toiletries from local businesses that prioritize organic, biodegradable ingredients. Instead of single-use plastic bottles, you’ll find refillable dispensers. Even the coffee in every room is fair-trade and sourced from nearby roasters. This “support local” mindset extends to partnerships with Māori-owned tourism operators, ensuring guests get authentic cultural experiences while contributing to the community.
Waste reduction is another area where this motel shines. Recycling bins are placed in every room and common area, but they’ve gone a step further by composting food scraps and garden waste. Leftover soap bars? Those get donated to organizations that repurpose them for communities in need. Plastic key cards have been replaced with wooden ones, and even the pens at the front desk are made from recycled materials.
Guests often notice the little touches that make a stay here feel thoughtful. One recent visitor mentioned how staff explained the sustainability features during check-in, adding, “It didn’t feel like a lecture—just a friendly chat about how we could all do our part.” Others rave about the organic herb garden near the patio, where they can snip fresh rosemary or thyme for their picnic lunches.
Of course, certifications require rigorous third-party audits. To earn theirs, the motel had to meet strict criteria covering energy, water, waste, and social responsibility. For example, they track monthly carbon emissions and offset what they can’t eliminate through verified reforestation projects. They’ve also trained every team member in sustainability best practices, from using eco-friendly cleaning products to reducing food waste in the kitchen.
The results speak for themselves. Over the past two years, the motel has reduced its carbon footprint by 40% while maintaining a 4.8/5 guest rating across booking platforms. Travelers appreciate the transparency, with many saying they chose this spot specifically for its green credentials. As one guest put it, “You don’t have to compromise on quality to be eco-conscious—this place nails both.”
Looking ahead, the team isn’t resting on their laurels. They’re experimenting with rainwater harvesting for garden irrigation and exploring partnerships with electric vehicle rental companies. Their ultimate goal? To create a blueprint that other small accommodations can replicate.
For anyone planning a trip to New Zealand, this motel offers more than just a place to sleep. It’s a chance to support a business that genuinely walks the talk on sustainability. Ready to see it for yourself? Learn more about their journey at fourseasonsmotelnz.com—and maybe get inspired to make your next adventure a little greener.
Whether you’re a solo traveler, a family, or someone planning a group trip, choosing stays like this adds up. After all, protecting the planet doesn’t happen overnight, but it does happen one check-in at a time.